Mariners Watching Rusney Castillo’s Showcase

The Mariners simply need more. Most especially, they need an outfielder who can hit like a professional for more than half a month (ahem Dustin Ackley ahem).

Maybe that guy is 27-year old Cuban defector Rusney Castillo. The 5 foot 9 inch outfielder has been compared to Brett Gardner, Jacoby Ellsbury, and Kenny Lofton by scouts.

On July 26th he is having a showcase at the University of Miami. Shortly thereafter he is expected to sign with a Major League team.

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And though it’s no surprise because I would guess all 30 Major League teams are doing some degree of due diligence, the Mariners are sending scouts to the showcase.

The 27-year old has potential in the Mariners outfielder. Heck, he could even make a difference straight away or be a September call-up who tips the scales.

One thing for certain, the Mariners’ Robinson Cano may be an incentive for him to sign with the M’s. Not just because he is one of the best hitters in baseball, but because they are both represented by Roc Nation and CAA Sports. Who would’ve thought Jay-Z’s name would ever be so connected to the Pacific Northwest.

The Orioles, Dodgers, and Twins also appear to be interested in the right-handed, plus-speed line-drive/power hitter. Most scouts expect him to start in the Minors and either get the call in September or be a fierce competitor for a 25-man roster spot during Spring Training in 2015.

What do you think: should the Mariners give this guy a serious look as a potential corner outfielder?